A sensational hat-trick by Stefan Payne gave Hornchurch all three points away at Leiston in the Ryman Premier, as another late goal proved to be the difference for Urchins.

It represented a great week for the Essex club as they also progressed into the next round of the FA Cup following Tuesday’s away win at East Thurrock.

The visitors started on the front foot and Michael Spencer had a fine effort tipped over the bar early on.

Payne was in inspired form and found the net in the 31st minute. A dangerous Billy Coyne throw caused chaos in the opposition box and Payne drilled in to give Hornchurch the lead.

Derek Duncan was introduced at the break for Coyne as Urchins continued to press for the second goal.

Payne nearly got that s but could only hit the post after a mistake in the Leiston defence.

Tambeson Eyong replaced Bourne in the 69th minute, coming back following a three-game ban, but he couldn’t prevent Urchins conceding. Midway through the second half, following a succession of corners, the host finally forced the equaliser.

David Head headed home in the 76th minute, and Urchins were firmly on the back foot now.

As the game edged into the final 10 minutes, drama arose on the Victory Road pitch.

Firstly Payne bagged his second of the game, scoring with the outside of his foot from Duncan’s accurate cross in the 84th minute.

Leiston hit back instantly though, as Matt Redgrave headed home to level the scores once more.

Hornchurch and Payne were not to be denied a third goal as the forward fired the winner three minutes from time.

Joey May feed the ball into him and he found the net to give Urchins the lead for the third time.

Jimmy McFarlane’s team survived two minutes added time to secure all three points and keep them fourth in the table, one point off leaders Wealdstone.